Description

Children (ages 2 to 4) with adult participation will learn basic concepts about nature with hands-on experiences that encourage and celebrate natural curiosity. The classes focus on social emotional development because we value self-discovery, mindfulness (embracing the present moment), connection to community, and appreciation for the world. Our weekly classes include circle time, local plants, animals, crafts, storytelling, snacks, and nature walks. Classes are led by educator, Erika Esposto (M.A.) whose committed to providing children with high quality education.
Be one of the first seven to sign up for a discount, and you'll be recognized as the founding core students at Mana Kids.
FAQs
All weather
Parent particpation required?
Yes, our weekly classes require a parent/guardian to be present because it’s important for children at such a young age entering a program to feel comfortable. When children see their parent/guardian at ease in new setting it encourages children to connect and learn so they may fully take in experience.
Where do you meet each week?
McLaren Park (onsite locations TBD weekly)
Do I need to bring snacks?
No. Healthy organic snacks will be provided. Examples of snacks we provide: gluten-free crackers, cheese sticks, organic fruit/veggie, granola bars, etc.
What can I bring into the event?
Reusable water bottleComfortable closed toe shoesChange of clothesLong pants
What sort of activities will be scheduled/offered, as well as how the mindfulness piece will be integrated into the experience?
Every session focuses on the season in time. As we move through every season the elements change and this brings a wealth of subjects to discuss.
Earth – Land, plants, animals, habitats, roots, growth,
Water – Rain, clouds, Reflection
Wind – Breeze, direction of air, sounds, breath
Fire – Sun, heat, light, brightness, sight.
Schedule & Examples of Activities/Mindfulness Practices for Weekly Gatherings:
9:15 - 9:30 Students arrive. Warm welcome. We’ll have books out or a simple project (coloring/ open-ended toys) to work on while we wait for others.
9:30 - 10:00 Morning introduction, body movements & spatial awareness

Examples of Mindfulness practices: Close eyes and go through breathing exercise (i.e. counting breath, watching breath, try different types of breathing and pretend we are blowing a balloon), engage all the senses talk about what we hear, smell, see, feel. Bringing awareness to space. Yoga inspired body movements.

10:00 -10:45 Nature experience.

Examples of Mindfulness practices: This is the magical time where we follow the children’s lead as we walk through park. As teachers we will use mindfulness to say fully present in experience and in the small moments delve deep into learning. We’ll incorporate rich language as we discuss what we are experiencing with all our senses and ask open-ended questions to promote inquiry like thinking. This is true mindfulness in action as we slow down, listen and really appreciate what the children are interested in learning about. We love the idea of learning about multitude of subjects in one small moment.

Each session will focus on the season and what occurs in our environment during this time. How are the elements in our space changing what’s happening around us? This is how we connect with our environment by having fun while noticing the beauty of what is happening around us.

10:45 - 11:10 Snack & Storytime

Examples of mindfulness practices: where our food came from, how the food is nourishing our body, bring awareness to the experience eating (i.e textures of food, crunch crackers, tenderness of fruit).

Read books based on elements and life around us. Use book to reiterate some experiences during nature walk.

11:15 - 11:30 Games/Closing Circle

Examples of Mindfulness practices: Gratitude – while reflecting on the fun things we experienced or saw we will say thank you! For example, thank you to the woodpeckers for pecking the wood and making special sounds for us to hear, thank you to the bees for letting us watch them pollenate, thank you to the sun for shining on us today, etc...

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?
Email: [email protected]
Can I bring a sibling?
Yes. We welcome siblings and offer a sibling discount.
What's the refund policy?
Class fee is non-refundable.